Spine Deformity (Scoliosis and Kyphosis)
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine as seen from the front, while kyphosis is an increased bend of the spine, also known as the hunched back. Scoliosis is idiopathic [ no known cause ] in most patients and can be present a few years after birth or appear at adolescence. Congenital scoliosis and kyphosis are due to malformed vertebrae at birth but can present later in life. Another form of kyphosis unique to developing countries is the post-tubercualar kyphosis seen due to untreated spinal TB resulting in buckling and bending of the spine. Evaluation and treatment of such deformities is a very complex topic and requires expert orthopedic spine surgery expertise and a team-based approach. Most idiopathic variants are essentially cosmetic deformities and can be treated without surgery, while congenital and other variants associated with various syndromes might require early surgical intervention. Your orthopedic spine surgeon can guide you to various options.
Treatment Modalities:
- Non-operative, exercises, observation
- Braces
- Surgical correction with screws and rods